Sony making amends for PlayStation Network hack

Sony's second-in-command apologized for the PlayStation Network hack and failure that has kept the system off line since April 20, promised some service will be restored this week and offered some freebies to make it right.

When the PlayStation Network is back online, PlayStation 3 owners will be forced to update their system software and change their network passwords --- a process that can be done only from the PS3 that activated the account or a validated e-mail address, according to a story from Kotaku, a gaming blog.

The network restoration, which will include Sony's Qriocity music and video services, will be rolled out regionally, according to a statement from Sony. The first services to be restored will include online multiplayer for PS3 and PSP; access to account management and password reset; friends list access and chat functionality; PlayStation Home; and the downloading of unexpired movie rentals and access to Qriocity's unlimited music service.

Sony also announced it's creating a new technology security position to oversee help oversee its systems, and it announced a "welcome back" compensation program for the 77 million account holders whose personal information -- and possibly credit card data -- was stolen by the network intrusion.

All PlayStation Network subscribers will get a free month of PlayStation Plus premium service. Those who already have PlayStation Plus will get an extra month for free, and "selected PlayStation entertainment content" will also be offered for free varying by region.

During Sony's news conference, Kazuo Hirai, the company's corporate executive officer, said the system breach occurred at its data center is San Diego.

In addition to hiring several security firms to audit its network, equipment and accounts, the law enforcement agencies including the FBI, several states attorneys general and Department of Homeland Security are investigating.